Genuine antique opium accoutrements such as this are very hard to come by nowadays, and are coveted by collectors. The Hmong are a minority hill tribe people renowned for their skills in cultivating opium poppies throughout SE Asia, in what came to be referred to as the Golden Triangle. The tradition of smoking opium has significantly diminished amongt the Hmong, but does continue in the more remote mountainous regions. The design of Hmong opium pipes and accessories borrow heavily from the Chinese.
Characterisrics
Mixing Tray: Height 7cm, 2.8 inches
Spatula: Length 9.7cm, 3.8 inches
Materials: brass, bamboo, crystal
Period: Early 20th century
Read more about the Hmong
Read Article on Opium Pipes
View Asian Home Decor Photos
Read about Asian Antiques